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New Music: Be Charlotte

Scottish three piece Be Charlotte add a kick to 2017 with their energetic new track One Drop, released on the 20th of January via AWAL. Fronted by teenager Charlotte Brimner (programming, guitar, keys and vocals) together with James Smith (keyboard, bass) and David Calder (drums) this brilliant new band is taking the industry by storm. Already regarded as one of the most prestigious and cutting edge songwriters on the Scottish music scene, Charlotte has the rare ability of transcending genres with ease, creating a unique and popular sound.

The single is a punchy, energetic indie pop song that shouts to be heard above the noise. The amalgamation of sounds juxtapose each other but work well. From intense drum and bass percussion to reverbs from indie guitar riffs, and lyrics that seem straight from a spoken word poet, this maddening piece, although it takes several listens, is actually really catchy.

Fans of acts like Grimes will know that mashing up genres isn’t anything new, in fact, the chance that it somehow turns out really great is something Grimes is known for, but not often can performers replicate this style well; and Be Charlotte certainly does.

Incorporating pop, hip-hop, beat boxing, electro and indie pop, Be Charlotte have created a release that is both playful and poignant. Inspired by the sense of being unable to see clearly what is in front of you, and the concept that once something is done it can’t be changed, the record opens with the punchy spoken lyrics, ‘One drop dilutes an ocean, can’t be reversed. One word controls emotion and this I don’t rehearse.‘ Charlotte’s words layered over a simple vocal melody and beating drums instantly makes an impact, a sort of taking no prisoners vibe; listeners are compelled to sit and take note of what this young vocalist has to say. As the rest of the band kicks in Charlotte’s vocals continue, reminiscent of the young and fresh talent of fellow Scot Nina Nesbit, refraining from adding an American twang to her vocals presenting her raw, unfiltered talent.

The group will be hitting the road this year to promote the new single and have already been confirmed for SXSW and The Great Escape Festival. With that in mind, 2017 is sure to be a stellar year for this great new talent.